For years, Vilcabamba has been the most popular destination in Ecuador for the potential expat. The majority of those who make it this far down the Inca trail want to remain and be a part of this enchanted valley. Until now, they’ve had few options with respect to quality property, and very little available. Today, that’s changed. I’m an architect building my home along with others on a very private, expansive, and ecologically friendly ranch, Hacienda San Joaquin.

Vilcabamba sits at a perfect 5,000-foot altitude - near the equator - enjoying warm balmy days and cool nights all year. There’s no need for heat or air conditioning. Nature has set the temperature on perfect. The air is crystal-clear, the water pure, the food organic, and the lifestyle laid-back and healthy. Due to the unique mix of healthful conditions, Vilcabamba has the highest percentage in the world of people over 100 years of age. In Ecuador, Vilcabamba has the highest concentration of English speakers. One can live well here on under $1,000 per month.

You’ll enjoy the ranch’s River Park and the Equestrian and Hiking Center, gathering places for our residents. At the Center are two large stables, a horse grooming area, our resident’s Information Center, and our Organic Ranch Store and Outdoor Café with tables that have wonderful views of the Andes. Those with horses are welcome to board them at home or at our stables.

Properties range from around one-quarter of an acre to over 20 acres, mountain lots, private canyons and riverfront estates, each unique, with combinations of size, seclusion and mind-boggling views provide a diverse menu of wonderful home site choices. High quality construction with high-end finishes costs about $35 per square foot. Turnkey professional legal, design and construction support is available.

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Hacienda San Joaquín is a project of Unexpected Development and Joe Simonetta. The partners provide health- and environmentally-conscious individuals with the highest-quality home sites, residences, and communities for vacation, retirement, and life.

Joe Simonetta studied architecture at the University of Southern California and holds a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Colorado. He also holds a Master of Divinity degree from Harvard Divinity School. Joe’s life experiences encompass many fields. He has been a military officer, professional athlete, entrepreneur, environmental activist, twice a nominee for the U.S. Congress, and the author of numerous books. Joe’s most recent book is Seven Words That Can Change the World.

Carl Wescott, a graduate of Stanford University who completed his Master’s degree and Ph.D. classwork at the University of California-Santa Cruz, is the founder of Surprise Development, Inc. He is a licensed real estate broker who has bought, sold, and developed numerous properties. He and Unexpected Development are working on real estate development projects in Ecuador, Panama, Honduras, Mexico, Uruguay, & Nicaragua.

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